I have a plate for the original 5D. I now have a 5DII. I see how it can fit with a bit of grinding, and read others have done it. Anyone know what is the best tools and such to use? Bench grinder with what kind of material doing the grinding? Then finish with what kind of file to get as smooth a finish and edge as possible?

My recommendation is to use a Dremel tool. They are sold in kits with an assortment of burrs. I would use a small carbide burr to shape the metal, followed with a fine abrasive-embedded rubber conical bur to smooth and polish. Then after degreasing with Dawn detergent and hot water, dry and spray with flat black paint.

Disclaimer: Wear eye protection. Clamp the plate securely. Let the tool do the work (don't rush or push hard).

Here's an example of a Dremel kit. They are often on sale (Black Friday?) and I bought this kit for about $59.

You can also buy just the tool alone and the few burrs and polishers you need.

Addendum: My motto is "Every new project justifies the purchase of a new tool". That has served me well over the years both for my "shop" and my photographic endeavor. Besides, the Dremel should be part of everyone's tool set.

Might be a bit tough using a bench grinder to trim small amounts of material, and usually the wheels on bench grinders are aggressively coarse. I'd recommend a small hand-held grinder, like a Dremel tool with a small diamond grinding bit.

matt4626 wrote:
A new cottage industry in the making. For what they're boning us (RRS/Kirk) for an oz. or so of aluminum...
we should be able to get multiple uses out of da plates. No?! I love thecough $6-8 shipping RRS tacks on. F 'em.